MAGLEV
CONTEST MEDIA ADVISORY

EVENT: Testing of model vehicles propelled by magnetic
levitation (maglev) for the Eighth Annual Middle School Magnetic
Levitation Contest. Maglev, the suspension, guidance and propulsion
of vehicles by magnetic forces, was invented and patented in 1968
by Brookhaven National Laboratory scientists Gordon Danby and
James Powell. It may be the transportation of the future because
it is less costly and environmentally friendlier than building
new roads.

Media representatives are invited to attend the contest. Although
students, parents and teachers will be present, the event is closed
to the general public because of space limitations.

WHEN: Tuesday, April 29, from 9 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.

WHERE: Brookhaven Center, Brookhaven National Laboratory.
The Lab is located on William Floyd Parkway (County Road 46),
one-and-a-half miles north of Exit 68 of the Long Island Expressway.

DETAILS: Over 300 middle school technology students from
16 schools in Nassau and Suffolk Counties have entered the 1997
contest. Hosted by the Laboratory for the first time, the contest
is sponsored by BNL; Hofstra University, Center for Technology
Education; the Long Island Technology Administration Association;
the Nassau Technology Association; and the Suffolk Technology
Education Association. (Attached is a list of schools that have
entered students in the contest.) The students were required to
design and construct model vehicles according to certain size
and weight specifications, with the goal being to design the fastest
vehicle that carries the greatest load with the fewest magnets.
In addition, the students will be judged on the design briefs
for their vehicles. There will be three winners in four categories:
appearance, wind power, self-propelled, and electrified track.
Each of the dozen winners will receive a trophy.

The vehicles will be tested on special tracks, while the students
observe how their vehicles fare. The handmade, unique vehicles
and the enthusiasm of the middle school students provides excellent
visuals.

The media will be accommodated, but the event is not open
to the general public.